Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, the Russian YouTuber famous for his prank videos, was arrested in the Philippines and will remain in custody while facing multiple criminal charges. Authorities confirmed on Monday that deportation proceedings have been temporarily halted as legal action continues.
Zdorovetskiy was apprehended at a hotel in Pasay City after the Bureau of Immigration issued a mission order, declaring him an “undesirable” foreign national. According to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, the YouTuber will be held accountable for his actions under Philippine law, as captured in videos that went viral online.
The charges against Zdorovetskiy include unjust vexation, alarm and scandal, and attempted theft. Police have presented footage showing the YouTuber allegedly harassing Filipino citizens in public spaces. In one video, Zdorovetskiy is seen confronting a security guard and an elderly woman in Bonifacio Global City. Additional clips show him jumping onto a moving jeepney, fabricating false reviews about local businesses, and stealing small items like an electric fan and a tricycle, which he later abandoned.
Remulla confirmed that Zdorovetskiy will remain at the Bureau of Immigration detention facility in Muntinlupa while awaiting trial. “We will not deport him. He will be held accountable here under the law,” he said.
Authorities are also investigating Zdorovetskiy’s local cameraman, believed to be Filipino, who allegedly assisted in the controversial pranks. The cameraman could face charges as well.
“This serves as a reminder that we take our own country seriously. We will not allow anyone to belittle us,” Remulla stated.
Zdorovetskiy, known for his prank-based YouTube content, is now facing serious legal repercussions in the Philippines.
